Dana Duckworth named new Bama Gymnastics Head Coach

The University of Alabama Director of Athletics announced on Tuesday that Dana Duckworth would succeed Sarah Patterson as the head coach of their gymnastics team.

According to a press release from the athletics department, Duckworth's first year as head coach will be her twentieth year with the program.

She spent four years as a gymnast, nine as a volunteer coach and the past six years as an assistant coach. Duckworth was part of the 1991 NCAA championship team.

"When
it became evident that Sarah Patterson would be stepping down, we knew that the
pieces were already in place to continue our championship tradition," said Director of Athletics Bill Battle. "We are proud to announce that Dana Duckworth, one of the most successful
gymnasts in our storied history, will lead us into the future."

"This
is such an amazing opportunity," said Duckworth. "It is the best job in all of
gymnastics and I'm extremely proud to be able to continue to be a part of this
incredible tradition."

Duckworth's promotion is pending approval by the University of Alabama Board of Trustees.